Legislation that would require welfare recipients to be tested for drug use is gaining popularity among Kentucky legislators, more than 50 of whom have signed on as co-sponsors.

It doesn’t matter that the measure stands little chance of passing into law. In a legislative election year, incumbents want their names on proposals that tend to be popular with blue-collar voters, as this one is.

Shame on the legislators who signed on to this bill. Voters who believe in small government and privacy should remember that these legislators supported intrusive legislation the next time they’re up for re-election.